Tamari, Lawrenceville

After attending an event in the city a few months ago, some friends and I decided to try Tamari in Lawrenceville for some food and wine.  We had heard good things, and were looking forward to relaxing, and trying the relatively new restaurant.  Tamari is not a large establishment; it probably seats 50 people, maybe 20 more during the warm summer months when the patio is open.  The interior of the restaurant is contemporary; the lines flow smoothly and the colors are engaging.  The streamlined bar was full of dinner guests enjoying appetizers and colorful martinis.  We sat and ordered a nice bottle of California white, and looked over the menu.  We started with some items from the Robata Grill: Bacon and Quail Egg served with Ponzu Butter, Ginger and Ghimichurri ($3.00 per piece), with some Ceviche of grilled Octopus with Red Onion, Cilantro, Poblano and Red Pepper, served with Tostone.  The Grilled Romaine Salad was also ordered ($7.00), with Mi Casa Vinaigrette and Asiago cheese.  The Maki sounded good; Yellow Tail and Scallion ($6.00) was also ordered.

Our appetizers arrived, and the first thing I noticed is that they were small…perhaps microscopic is a better way to describe the food.  I tried the Bacon and Quail Egg served with Ponzu Butter.  It was ok, but the egg was over-cooked and mealy.  The bacon wasn’t crisp, but chewy; a strange combination.  The grilled Romaine Salad was refreshing; the vinaigrette and strong cheese was a good grouping of flavors.  The Maki was fresh and sweet, it could have used some extra ginger for added flavor.

Besides tasting platters and “tapas,” entrees are also available.  Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass looked like a good choice, especially at $18.00.  Also offered; Red Miso Paella with Scallops, Mussels, Shrimp, Pineapple and Saffron Rice, $20.00.  Beef Tenderloin ($18.00), and Five Spice Braised Pork Belly (14.00), is also available. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Chef’s tasting menu, available Monday through Thursday (minimum of two people).

The food at Tamari is good, and the atmosphere is even better.  If you’re interested in a trendy new place to hang out, this would be an obvious choice.